That number includes those who were killed directly by Hurricane Maria, as well as those who died in the six months following the storm as a result of poor healthcare provision and a lack of electricity and clean water.

Repeated power cuts also led to an increased number of deaths from diabetes and sepsis.

Why are people worried about flood insurance?

The US government has a National Flood Insurance Programme (NFIP) that helps pay for flood coverage in high-risk zones across the country.

The programme, which is billions of dollars in debt, has been up for renewal several times – Congress’ next deadline to re-authorise the NFIP is 30 November.

While some wind damage may be covered by regular homeowners’ insurance, flooding is a different story.

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Media captionHurricane Florence seen from space

In the US, flood protection policies from private providers are often very expensive, largely because it is difficult to assess a home’s flood risk.

These policies also take 30 days to kick in, meaning any homeowners without coverage in the Carolinas now will not be able to insure their property before Florence hits.

“For everyone thinking they can ride this storm out, I have news for you: that will be one of the biggest mistakes you can make in your life.”Mayor of New Orleans Ray Nagin ahead of Hurricane Gustav, 2008

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